Duke University Hospital Program
Location:
Durham, NCSpecialty:
Infectious diseaseACGME Code:
1463621137The Duke University Hospital Program in Infectious Diseases focuses on delivering high-quality care through the intersection of patient satisfaction, innovative research, and robust educational frameworks. The program resides within the Duke Division of Infectious Diseases, which specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and clinical investigation of a range of infectious diseases such as HIV, MRSA, tuberculosis, and various fungal and parasitic infections 1.
Curriculum and Training Overview
The fellowship program is designed for a duration of three years, emphasizing a combination of clinical practice, research, and teaching. The training aims to develop the next generation of infectious disease specialists capable of conducting both basic and clinical research. The educational structure integrates varied training experiences that encompass patient care, bedside teaching, and formal didactic sessions. Trainees will engage in managing complex cases, particularly at the Duke AIDS Research and Treatment (DART) Center, which notably serves patients with HIV and related co-morbidities 2.
Clinical Rotations and Experiences
Fellows will participate in several critical rotations throughout their training. Key clinical experiences are located at Duke University Hospital and surrounding facilities where they will collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to provide comprehensive care. This includes specialized training in outpatient and inpatient settings, with opportunities to participate in global health initiatives and treatment programs abroad in underrepresented regions 3.
Research Opportunities
Research is a significant component of the fellowship at Duke, where fellows are encouraged to engage in various ongoing projects. This includes basic, translational, and clinical research that directly impacts patient care and the development of innovative treatment protocols. The division emphasizes collaborative research and offers fellows access to numerous institutes and labs specializing in vaccines, diagnostic tools, epidemiology, and more 4. Specific research tracks available include:
- HIV/AIDS
- Healthcare epidemiology and infection prevention
- Immunology and Transplant Infectious Diseases
- Fungal infections and antibiotic stewardship
Fellows may also join the Interdisciplinary Research Training Program in AIDS (IRTPA) focusing on HIV treatment and research. Opportunities to travel abroad for research are available, including multiple engagements with international health organizations 5.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
The program strongly commits to diversity, equity, and inclusion, fostering an environment that embraces diverse perspectives and experiences among faculty, staff, and fellows. This commitment is bolstered through recruitment practices and community engagement initiatives 6.
Visa Support
The Duke Infectious Diseases program provides sponsorship for J-1 and H-1B work visas, which are essential for international medical graduates (IMGs) who may require visa assistance to join the program. This includes guidance and support through the visa application process 7.
Competitiveness and Application Requirements
The program is known to be highly competitive, attracting candidates from diverse educational backgrounds, including DO and IMG applicants. Special criteria may include graduation timelines and a specified number of attempts on standardized exams such as the USMLE 8. Candidates are advised to have a strong clinical background and relevant research experience to bolster their applications.
Conclusion
The Duke University Hospital Program in Infectious Diseases offers a comprehensive fellowship program that immerses candidates in a robust learning environment, emphasizing patient care, research, and community engagement. The program’s commitment to fostering future leaders in the field through individualized training and diverse experiences equips fellows with the tools necessary for success in their medical careers.
Website
Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
60hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
14hrsFirst Year Salary:
$75,684First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
7.1XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Durham, NC
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Durham, NC
- Crime Rate and Safety: Durham has some areas with higher crime rates, so it's important to research specific neighborhoods. Overall, it offers varying levels of safety.
- Fun Activities: Durham is known for its vibrant arts scene, historic sites, and outdoor recreational options. You can enjoy visiting museums, attending cultural events, or exploring nearby parks.
- Climate: Durham experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and humid, while winters can be cold. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather.
- Races and Population: Durham is diverse, with a mixture of different races and ethnicities. It has a population of around 280,000 people.
- Education: Durham is home to Duke University and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, offering educational opportunities and enriching the community.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Durham is slightly higher than the national average. Housing costs and property taxes can be significant factors to consider.
- Nearby Cities: Raleigh and Chapel Hill are nearby cities, both approximately 30-40 minutes away by car. Raleigh is the capital of North Carolina and offers a bustling urban environment, while Chapel Hill is known for its university town atmosphere.
- Pros: Rich cultural scene, educational opportunities, diverse population.
- Cons: Some areas with higher crime rates, slightly higher cost of living compared to national average.
Interview Questions
